The Member of Parliament for Dagoretti South Constituency Hon. John Kiarie alias KJ has petitioned the parliament to establish retirement benefits for auditor general similar to that enjoyed by state officials like the deputy president, chief justice and attorney generals.
“There is need for parity in treatment as per the structure of government and the equivalent levels thereto by the inclusion of the Auditor General’s post-service benefits in the retirement benefits (Deputy President and Designated state officers Act,” KJ said.
At the moment the allow one to hold the for a fixed term of eight years without any retirements benefits like other state officers.
The lawmaker pointed that that amounts to discrimination and it risks compromising the independence of the office that audits both National and County governments, courts, Parliament, Commissions, Political Parties and submits it’s reports to Parliament.
“The holders of the office must be given constitutional safeguards beyond a fixed term of service of eight years so that they are insulated from exigencies that may compromise their independence and integrity during their term in office,” Kiarie said.
Hon. Kiarie further argued that personal and financial security of outgoing auditor general should be guaranteed and protected from potential retaliatory actions and safeguard the dignity of the office.
Holders of the critical office in curbing graft and wastage in public offices will be entitled to retirement benefits like other state officers if Parliament adopts KJ’s proposal.
The first officeholder, Edward Ouko who retired in August 2019 served and left without any package, even his security was withdrawn immediately after retirement.
Kiarie prayed to his colleagues in the National Assembly to review the matter and recommend retirement benefits package for the holders of Auditor General’s office upon retirement.
